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Volume 10, Issue 13 — July 5, 2012
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Why the HDBaseT Mystery?
By Jon Chuchla
rAVe BlogSquad So I saw at InfoComm that some manufacturers are openly saying their extender products are HDBaseT, while others don't mention it at all. These latter companies typically mask the technology under their own brand names. Why? I can't figure it out. I’m an engineer, not a marketing guru, so I speculate that there's a marketing motive of keeping the buyer within the product family. I suppose there's logic to that. It also makes single source support easier from a single manufacturer.
On the other hand though, from the integrator's perspective, I see a lot more possibilities for mixing and matching sources and sinks. I saw one projector company that, while it branded the technology with its own name, it also demonstrated a projector working with another big brand's source transmitter. It worked beautifully right out of the box. I imagine there's some control-related features that don't fully translate in this configuration because the command set is specific to the device. But overall the audio video transport worked — and it worked very smoothly. I can see myself designing systems like this over and over again. Take the best from what each manufacturer has to offer and make it work nicely with the next one. Isn't that our job as integrators? Read between the lines of the spec sheets, test out the theories and hunches we derive and deliver nice polished systems for our clients.
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Where Did All the Great Projects Go?
By Chuck Wilson
Executive Director, NSCA Where did all the great projects go?
Upon reminiscing with past NSCA leaders last month during the member reception in Las Vegas, we got talking about the typical jobs of today vs. yesteryear. One unanimous observation was that today there seems to be something wrong on every job. Or maybe we have better tools to uncover what we used to sweep under the rug. Here are some of the examples we discussed.
- Lower margins and fierce competition drive down that safety net we once had that allowed us to simply take care of any oversights, forgotten materials, extra labor, etc. We now have to fight for every change order and extra billing opportunity. It makes the project more complicated. We used to deal with it and move on focusing on improved relations with the customer and their satisfaction.
- We used to have the mindset of, “OK, we forget this item, but our contingencies allowance will easily cover that or we will make that up on the next job.” That luxury is now gone by the wayside. Especially on projects where itemized material lists are required, it’s always difficult to get properly reimbursed for forgotten items, regardless of who wrote the specification.
- Contractor qualifications and mandatory pre-bid meetings once gave us a comfort level that the two or three other bidders had the same level of training, basic overhead structure and profit requirements that we did. Today, the seven or eight other bidders may have a very different business model, be bundling services or perhaps even looking at the project as a way to "buy into" the industry.
- Contracts were once simple. We never thought of legal battles, payment fights, retainage held for months and months, etc. Today, it just seems as if you can expect something unpleasant to occur on each job related to contract administration.
- Project management has dramatically changed. It’s nearly impossible today to assign a lead technician to be the manager of a mid to large project. With lean margins and tight labor allocations, the job has to be managed with such precision to be profitable. Wasted trips, unplanned overtime, exceeding freight allowances, forgotten permits, fees and insurance will take the profits out of a job quickly.
- Communications should be far better than ever with all the tools we now have. Yet, it still seems that we stumble when we don’t carefully document the details of the conversations and various approvals. There are still uncertain phrases and conditional disclaimers being thrown around that create more risk than really necessary. Getting the project managers to be effective communicators is now a must.
Our conclusion is that we seldom have that great project where everything went according to plan. Has it always been like that?
Chuck Wilson is the executive director of NSCA. Reach him at cwilson@nsca.org
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LCDs to Replace Projectors – Ha, You're Kidding Me
By Gary Kayye
rAVe Founder Recently, an industry pundit and self-proclaimed HDTV expert wrote that there's a trend away from the projector and towards LCDs in meeting room applications. Although he cites no statistical evidence of this, he says it as though it's a point of fact.
Well, he's dead wrong.
Are there rooms where LCDs are being installed instead of projectors — sure!
Is this a trend that's going to kill the projector – heck, no. It's a trickle, at best.
And, in most cases where LCDs are being installed in lieu of projectors, it's a cop-out. It's because the integration firm (if you can call them that) isn't sophisticated enough to specify the right display. And, are you paying attention? They're putting in CONSUMER HDTVs.
This is not a trend we should emulate. This is a hang-and-banger trying to claim they do installs. We are the PROFESSIONAL AV industry – we're not Best Buy who, oh by the way, installs projectors via the Geek Squad.
Look, there are design criteria here that must be considered and need to be adhered to. Just because there's an affordable — or even cheap — 70" HDTV available on the market, doesn't mean it should be installed where a 90" image is required for proper viewing! There's a huge difference between a 70" LCD and a 90" image requirement.
The hardware shouldn't be considered until the room design has been figured out — then you install what's right for the application. Are they gonna watch TV all the time? OK, go ahead and install an HDTV. But, if the end user is going to be showing PowerPoint AND other data with any sort of resolution to it, then most HDTVs aren't going to look good. And, chances are, using the design criteria set forth by the CTS Design program from InfoComm, even an 80" LCD isn't big enough. And, if it is, it's only 1920×1080, by the way. Connect an XGA PC to that and, voila, you're now displaying a 65" image. I bet you didn't consider that. Is 65" big enough? And, remember, we started this example out with an 80" LCD. By the way, did I mention that you can buy four commercial-grade projectors for the price of one commercial-grade 80" display?
So what about those smaller rooms?
Statistically, if you look at all the ProAV installs out there, less than 3 percent of all installs are rooms small enough for a 50", 60" or 70" image. Sure, they're out there, but if that's all you're doing, you'd better take a gander at another profession as the consumer HDTVs margins are going to eat you alive.
Don't be stupid and believe the hype.
Focus on true ProAV installs. And, don't be scared into using HDTVs just because someone says it's the trend.
Are we going to be told to install smart phones in the ceiling because they have projectors in them, too?
Gary Kayye is the founder of rAVe [Publications]. Reach him at gary@ravepubs.com
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Recently from the AVNation Podcasts Back to Top Digital Signage Hardware Market Over $5 Billion Now; 8 Percent Growth to 2016 IMS Research estimates that hardware supporting digital signage such as media players, PCs, displays and LED Video arrays generated nearly $5.5 billion in revenue during 2011. That's huge as it means the hardware-only portion (not even counting the software portion of the DS market) is already larger than the entire education AV market!
The new IMS Research study, "The World Market for Digital Signage — 2012 Edition," also forecasts continued growth for this equipment at a combined compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5 percent through 2016.
Displays continue to drive the majority of shipments and revenues for the industry when cinema projectors are excluded. IMS Research estimates that during 2011, LCD and plasma displays shipping worldwide for digital signage generated revenues of nearly $2.7 billion, representing 22.5 percent growth over 2010. Contributing to this strong growth was an increase in shipments for screens smaller than 30 inches, replacement of CCFL with LED backlit and thin bezel displays, as well as an increased demand for touchscreens. LED Video display (or module) revenue grew due to increased investment in sporting venues and outdoor digital advertising. Media players and PCs contributed nearly $1 billion.
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NEC Europe Launches The Training Academy NEC Display Solutions Europe has launched the NEC Training Academy. Aimed at sales and technical staff of NEC’s specialist partner network, including system integrators, value added resellers and distributors, the NEC Training Academy builds up the product intelligence of the channel partners in order to increase the general effectiveness and performance of their sales and technical support functions. The Training Academy will help these partners become experts and ambassadors of NEC hardware and software solutions, building up the industry knowledge and expertise which is required in today’s increasingly complex display industry.
Training sessions with ensuing certification tests will be regularly held in Munich, and can be delivered in local languages on request. Each session will give attendees an increased level of display product and technical awareness and know-how.
The two-day tutorial will consist of theoretical and hands-on sessions on NEC display and projector products, covering all product features and benefits as well as practical training on installing and remote controlling video walls and installation projectors, and conducting display color calibration.
Learn more or sign up here: https://login.nec-display-solutions.com/p/exhq/en/login.xhtml
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Share Article Back to Top Boing! Scientists Invent Rubberband Circuitry A team of really smart people from Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering has stumbled upon a way to create electronics that bend and stretch four times as much as current “flexible” technologies.
The team created a porous, three-dimensional compound called poly(dimethylsiloxane) and filled it with a liquid metal conductor (EGaIn, in case you’re interested) to achieve this feat. Current circuitry technology uses solid metals that can lose as much 100 times their electrical conductivity when stretched or bent.
“By combining a liquid metal in a porous polymer, we achieved 200 percent stretchability in a material that does not suffer from stretch. Once you achieve that technology, any electronic can behave like a rubberband,” said environmental engineering and mechanical engineering professor Yonggang Huang.
And, the current-carrying capacity for the new technology is good enough for interconnects in light-emitting diode (LED) systems.
Huang’s paper, Three-dimensional Nanonetworks for Giant Stretchability in Dielectrics and Conductors, was recently published in Nature Communications and can be found here: http://www.nature.com/ncomms/journal/v3/n6/full/ncomms1929.html
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Share Article Back to Top Digital Projection Upgrades Lighting Pro Series Digital Projection International (DPI) recently upgraded upgraded its LIGHTNING Series, announcing new features for the line at InfoComm. The flagship series of DPI's three-chip product lineup, the LIGHTNING Pro Series, has been outfitted with new optical enhancements, including:Full 3D connectivity to a diverse range of high frame rate and HDMI 1.4a sources Advanced warp and blend with minimal video latency 3G-SDI inputs, standard FastFrame motion blur reduction Intelligent lens mount Hyper-cooled lamp modules with super efficient glass reflectors Availability in 1080p, WUXGA and SX+, with brightness specs from 20,000 to 30,000 lumens And something called RapidRig, which DPI says provides easy projector flying and stacking, along with independent pitch roll and yaw adjustments per projector
Get more details here: http://www.digitalprojection.com/BrowseProjectors/SeriesList/ProjectorList/tabid/86/SeriesId/5/MarketTypeId/10/Default.aspx
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Share Article Back to Top Panasonic Intros High Brightness LCD Projector with HDBaseT Panasonic announced at InfoComm its new PT-VW431DU, a 4,300-lumen, WXGA (1280×800) resolution compact body projector. Based on Valens HDBaseT technology, Panasonic’s Digital Link is embedded in the PT-VW431DU, allowing a single cable to transmit uncompressed videos signals, audio, and control commands up to 100 meters (328 feet). The need for an external receiver is eliminated when the PT-VW431DU is used together with Panasonic’s new ET-YFB100 switcher box or other switchers with HDBaseT chipset. Panasonic says the PT-VW431DU offers high brightness of 4,300 lumens and a high contrast ratio of 3,500:1. It also has an ambient light sensor (which the company calls its Daylight View Basic technology) and adjusts the brightness based on the surrounding lighting conditions. The PT-VW431DU features a vertical lens shift function, which moves the image position +48% vertically without distorting the image. The device also offers a 1.6x manual zoom lens, allowing a wide range of projections, from 2.5m (8.2ft) to 4.1m (13.5ft) to project a 100” diagonal image. To reduce maintenance costs, the projector is equipped with a pleated micro cut filter, which delivers of up to 4,000 hours of service. Other useful features include HDMI input terminal, remote monitoring and control over a LAN, Extron’s GlobalViewer® and Crestron’s Connected capability, direct power off and built-in 10-watt speaker for effective presentations.
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Sony Intros Three New Portable Projectors at InfoComm Sony debuted three new portable projectors at InfoComm, including the VPL-DX120 (XGA at 2600 lumens), VPL-DX140 (XGA at 3200 lumens) and VPL-DW120 (WXGA at 2600 lumens). All three projectors weigh 5 lbs., 7 oz. They are incorporated with Sony’s “Off and Go” feature for removal immediately after use, have auto keystone adjustment and keystone distortion and include a carrying case. In addition, all three projectors have an Auto Mode (Auto Brightness Adjustment Function), where the brightness of the lamp’s output is automatically adjusted depending on the brightness of the projected image, to avoid unnecessary power consumption. Sony claims that this feature helps the lamps to last approximately 7,000 hours.
The new models offer 12-bit 3D digital gamma correction and users can choose from any of six pre-configured picture modes (dynamic, standard, game, blackboard, cinema and presentation). A blackboard mode lets users make color adjustments easily during projection to blackboard surfaces.
The models’ security pack includes security locks (password and mechanical), a security bar and panel key lock. Simple interfaces include HDMI for digital image and audio input. The new models in the VPL-D100 series are all planned to be available in late summer 2012, with suggested list pricing has not yet been set.
Here's the press release on the new projectors (as they aren't on Sony's site yet): https://www.ravepubs.com/index.php?option=com_zoo&task=item&item_id=2593&Itemid=165
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Share Article Back to Top Boxlight Intros the TraveLight4 Ultra-portable Projector BOXLIGHT recently announced the release of the TraveLight4, the newest in its ultra-portable projector line. The 3.2-pound, ultra compact TraveLight4 features WXGA resolution, 3000 lumens, and a 2500:1 contrast ratio. In addition, the single-chip DLP projector also includes HDMI, a password security lock to protect from unwanted users, and variable fan speed for high altitude presentations. It also has a dual lamp mode that offers flexibility for different ambient light levels.
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Christie Adds to Mirage M and J Series Projector Lines Christie has expanded its product offerings for the visualization markets with the addition of its next-generation Mirage M Series high performance digital projectors. The M Series joins the latest Mirage J Series, adding three new 3D-capable products to the dual-lamp platform for a total of 21 projectors in the Mirage Series lineup. Both the Mirage M and Mirage J Series projector platforms now come with an Intelligent Lens System (ILS) that features auto lens calibration and an all new version "Christie Twist," which the company says provides enhanced built-in geometric warping with sharper imagery, and advanced edge-blending capabilities that reduce or eliminate all electronic blending artifacts.
Christie Mirage M Series
The three new models in the Mirage M series are: Mirage DS+14K-M, Mirage HD14K-M and Mirage WU14K-M. The Mirage M series projectors consist of either SXGA+, HD or WUXGA resolution and now feature from 6,000 up to 12,500 lumens. All three projectors will start shipping in July.
Christie Mirage J Series
The Christie Mirage J Series includes xenon illumination, capability for stereoscopic digital projection in SXGA+ (4:3), HD (16:9) and WUXGA (16:10) resolutions.
The Mirage M and J Series projectors come out of the box ready to produce active stereo projection from four different types of 3D source inputs:
- Up to 120 Hz native input over a single dual-link DVI-D cable or VGA cable
- A true 120 Hz image from two 60 Hz frame locked sources for compatibility with most passive stereo input sources
- Frame doubled content from 48-60 Hz for maximum system compatibility with single-link DVI-D
- Analog and full HDCP support of multiple mode 3D sources from consumer devices including triple flash at 144 Hz
Both the Mirage M and J series offer a host of options including HD-SDI and other input cards and can also project polarized passive stereo output with an optional filter.
Full specs on all of them are here: http://www.christiedigital.com/en-us/3D/products-and-solutions/projectors/Pages/default.aspx
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Share Article Back to Top PESA Launches Digital Media Switcher At InfoComm, PESA launched the C58 Digital Media System, which is designed for recording, playback, and distribution of critical live video and audio content. Meant for for court recording systems, medical forensic storage, video teleconferencing and training rooms and security and surveillance facilities, the C58-DMS combines up to eight channels of audio and five channels of video, regardless of format, and delivers synchronized live and on-demand playback.
With five independent video inputs and six outputs, the C58-DMS can simultaneously stream up to six video output streams over IP, including one for each individually selected source and a quad view composed of four selected sources. The system can capture H.264 IP camera streams, SDI video up to 720p/60 resolution and NTSC analog video simultaneously, and it can synchronize discrete audio inputs to discrete video and IP video inputs. It also accepts up to eight discrete line level XLR audio inputs. The C58-DMS digital media processing system actually combines live footage with video playback and/or computer-based content, such as PowerPoint slides. When it captures and streams multiple HD sources simultaneously, the streams remain associated and synchronized during the particular event. Intuitive computer software makes it easy to set up multi-channel sessions, initiate simultaneous streaming and recording and automatically make content available for on-demand viewing.
Here are all the specs: http://www.pesa.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=424&Itemid=328
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Share Article Back to Top ELAN Expands Commercial Offerings Last week at InfoComm, ELAN, a company that is primarily known in the home control market, introduced three new products to the g! family, which ELAN expects to strengthen the system’s appeal to light commercial installers. The new VL10 Valet is a 10” hard-wired tabletop and under-cabinet mounted color LCD touch screen. It features ELAN’s ‘touch and swipe’ design for controlling the g! System and also functions as a TV with the included analog video input. The ELAN VL10 Valet features a 16:9 wide screen format, a built-in speaker and microphone for messaging, IP connectivity for communication, non-volatile flash memory, quick programming, a screen saver mode that can display photos and it is compatible with all ELAN system controllers. The ELAN S1616A Amplifier/Controller is the company’s new 16-channel multi-zone amplifier/controller that combines the functionality of the ELAN D16 amplifier and S128P multi-zone controller into one new component. The S1616A is available in single- and dual-chassis versions, both of which include high-pass and low-pass crossovers, RCA inputs, speaker level and banana plug outputs and feature level, bass and treble adjustment for each output channel. ELAN’s g!Tools is a new software program that greatly simplifies ELAN g! system installation and management by organizing all system documents, firmware, installation guides and support software in one place, according to the company. g!Tools allows dealers to store and share one-way IR and serial drivers and also provides a dashboard screen for ELAN dealers to view, monitor and launch into every g! system they manage from one location, whether on the PC at their office or on a job site. This feature allows ELAN dealers to quickly check on multiple g! systems and offers the best access for managing and updating systems, as well as providing on-demand assistance to end users. ELAN has also introduced g!Mobile 5.5 software for iOS devices, which adds irrigation and messaging, making g! the most consistent interface in the industry across every device.
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Share Article Back to Top RGB Spectrum Shows New NOC Software RGB Spectrum's new MultiPoint Control Room Management System (MCMS) is designed for managing control rooms and operation centers, including network operations centers (NOCs), traffic operation centers (TOCs), security operation centers (SOCs) and emergency operation centers (EOCs). MCMS offers HD resolution at full frame rates and KVM functionality with resource arbitration. Providing a single control interface for each operator, allowing applications running on different computers to be easily accessed and displayed. In an SOC, for example, the video management system, entry control, elevator control and office applications, usually distributed across various computing resources, can be displayed in an integrated, multi-monitor pixel space, and accessed with a single keyboard and mouse.
The new GUI simplifies system operation by offering drag-and-drop window selection capability. It also offers operators the ability to control both a shared display wall and their local displays from the same interface. This includes window positioning, preset selection, and KVM control of the computers displayed. The operator's GUI presents a replica of the actual wall display and offers live thumbnail updates. This allows operators to quickly familiarize themselves with the features and focus on the task at hand.
Here are more details: http://www.rgb.com/products/Mcms/?c=n
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Share Article Back to Top Middle Atlantic Adds Series Surge Protection Middle Atlantic Products has added Series Protection — a patent-pending technology Middle Atlantic says provides instantaneous protection of AV systems from damaging surges and is available in a newly introduced family of power distribution units. Middle Atlantic says that Series Protection was designed with "non-sacrificial circuitry" ensures system reliability and noise-free AV systems by protecting connected equipment without contaminating the system ground. Every model in the Series Protection suite automatically disconnects devices from sustained over- and under-voltage events. All units also perform automatic recovery after these events, minimizing system downtime.
The new line of Series Protection power products includes a hardwired model as well as half-width models (the half-width standard was developed by Middle Atlantic with Extron) that require minimum space without compromising functionality. Full-width rackmount models for 19” enclosures are also available. In addition, the company is expanding its RackLink Power Management System offering to include models incorporating Series Protection technology.
The entire line is here: http://www.middleatlantic.com/power/Power%20Distribution%20New.htm
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AMX Adds Two Modero Accessories AMX today announced two new accessories, the Modero X Series Multi Preview (MXA-MP) and the Modero X Series Multi Preview Live (MXA-MPL) to help in managing HD content on the company's touch panel line. The MXA-MP delivers preview images from as many as 10 video sources to Modero X Series Touch Panels and the MXA-MPL adds live HD video streaming.
The Modero X Series Multi Preview Live displays a HD digital video stream on Modero X Series Touch Panels when used in conjunction with an Enova DVX All-In-One Presentation Switcher or Enova DGX Digital Media Switcher. The MXA-MPL accepts analog or digital video inputs over HDMI and converts them to a video stream. The MXA-MP accepts digital video input signals over HDMI and converts them to JPEG preview images for display on Modero X Series.
For more details, go here: http://www.amx.com/products/categoryUserInterfaceAccessories.asp
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Share Article Back to Top Kramer Intros Kramer CORE End-to-End Digital Switching and Routing Solution Last month Kramer introduced the Kramer CORE – an end-to-end solution for switching and routing digital signals over long distances via HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort and VGA. The heart of the product is the multi-format digital router, and Kramer introduced three new ones at InfoComm.
The family of three multi-format modular routers, the VS-1616D, VS-3232D and VS-6464D, offers matching input and output boards, including DVI, HDMI and Dual-Link DVI signal boards, as well as fiber and Kramer DGKat twisted pairs. These are configurable units in which a frame is purchased as a stand-alone frame, to which as many input/output boards can be added or removed.
They can be used with copper, fiber or twisted pair (separately or at the same time). The VS-1616D can be expanded from a 2×2 up to 16×16; the VS-3232D can be expanded from a 4×4 up to 32×32; and the VS-6464D can be expanded from 8×8 up to 64×64. Available modules include DVI, DVI (HDCP), DVI (dual-link), HDMI, LC Optical and DGKat Twisted Pair (available Q2 2012).
Here are specs:
- Max. data rate – 3.2Gbps per graphics channel up to 10.4 Gbps total
- HDTV compatible
- HDCP compliance – with DVI (HDCP) and HDMI modules
- DGKat signal integration, which is Kramer’s unique technology for converting TMDS as well as control and communication to signals that run over twisted pair cables
- Kramer equalization and re?Klocking technology, which rebuilds the digital signal to travel longer distances
- I-EDIDPro Kramer Intelligent EDID Processing
- Flexible control options, including front panel, IR remote, RS-232 and Ethernet
- Front panel lockout
- Take button, which executes multiple switches all at once
- Memory locations, which stores multiple switches as presets to be recalled and executed as needed
- Test pattern module with four output resolutions for troubleshooting video problems
- Worldwide Power Supply – 100-240V AC.
- Standard 19” rack mount size (4U) with rack “ears” included.
For more information Kramer CORE, click here: http://www.kramerelectronics.com/products/model.asp?pid=2184
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Share Article Back to Top Christie Debuts Build-to-Order Video Wall Processor The Christie TVC-1700 is a built-to-order video wall processor for control room installations that supports video wall configurations with up to 64 outputs and hundreds of inputs.
The TVC-1700 is managed by Christie MASTERSuite software, which Christie says enables instant access to any source of visual information in the control room and makes a tiled video-wall display perform as if it were a single, ultra-high resolution Windows desktop — like a giant video canvas. Christie TVC-1700 controllers ship with Windows 7 Ultimate so you can run multiple software applications on your video wall directly from the controller.
Get all the details here: http://www.christiedigital.com/en-us/video-walls/video-wall-solutions/video-wall-controllers/pages/tvc-1700-video-wall-controller.aspx |
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Ships 800-Watt Energy Star-Qualified Amp Extron Electronics announced this week the immediate availability of the XTRA Series XPA 4002 two channel power amplifier. This compact 1U, convection cooled amplifier delivers 400 watts rms per channel into 4 ohms or 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms. The XPA 4002 replaces the XPA 2002 amplifier at the same price. It is an Energy Star-qualified amplifier with an advanced Class D amplifier design. The XPA 4002 also features patented CDRS – Class D Ripple Suppression technology that provides a smooth, clean audio waveform, which Extron says is an improvement in signal fidelity over conventional Class D amplifiers. It is half the size of comparable amplifiers, conserving rack space and weighing only 9 pounds (4 kilograms).
The XPA 4002 includes an auto power-down feature that automatically places the amplifier into standby after a period of inactivity, and consumes 30 watts or less when idle and less than 1 watt in standby mode. It also has an ultra low inrush current draw to prevent power circuit overload that occurs when multiple amplifiers are switched on simultaneously. Extron says this feature eliminates the need for power sequencing in systems with multiple amplifiers in large centralized equipment racks, and prevents other equipment from experiencing power interruption from associated power surges. Additionally, the XPA 4002 amplifier features very low thermal dissipation under full load, which keeps racks and equipment racks cool.
To see all the specs, click here: http://www.extron.com/xpa4002nspr
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Share Article Back to Top ATM Ships New Shelf-Based Cooling System Active Thermal Management's new Cool-slim Component Cooler is designed to boost existing (but insufficient) ventilation for audio and video components, meant to solve overheating problems where components sit on closely-spaced shelves. Its 1 9/16-inch height can be reduced to 1 5/16 inches by removing the Cool-slim’s feet. Temperature controlled, it will cool components whether or not they have vent openings. Dimensions are small at 11"x11"x2". It's also only 19 dBA.
For more information, go here: http://www.activethermal.com/page39.html
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Share Article Back to Top RGB Spectrum Adds Annotator Option to MultiViewer RGB Spectrum's new Annotator option for the QuadView HDx MultiViewer adds the ability to highlight, draw and point over any portion of the multi-image output. The Annotator includes various kinds of markers, including cursors, drawing tools and highlighters. Markers are available in multiple color and style choices and stored in up to 25 overlays. The use of multiple overlays allows annotations to be set up offline and recalled during a presentation.
Input devices include touch screens and graphics tablets and the basic features include:
- Scale and annotate video (HD/SD, NTSC/PAL) and graphics sources
- Freehand draw with 12 pointer types, 4 line widths, 7 colors, 3 highlight colors
- Resize and move windows
- Freeze live video for annotation
- Save snapshots to USB memory device or network drive
- Print snapshots to a network or local USB printer
- Share snapshots via teleconference
- Control with touch screen, digitizing tablet, mouse and keyboard
You can see all the details here: http://www.rgb.com/news/announcements/item.php?file=Annotatorjune
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Share Article Back to Top DAS Adds White Paint Option for HOW Installs D.A.S. Audio told rAVe today that it's taking aim at the HOW market by adding a white paint finish for a variety of its most popular products. The white color option will facilitate the integration of the D.A.S. systems in the décor of permanent installations such as houses of worship, auditoriums and multipurpose venues.
The new paint finish will be available as a 'special order' item on the company’s Aero 8A powered line array system, its companion sub, the LX-212A, as well as the D.A.S. LX-215A powered double 15-inch subwoofer system. Also to be available in white will be the Convert 12A constant curvature array as well as its companion subwoofer, the Convert 18A.
Here are all the specs: http://www.dasaudio.com/en/cp/aero-series-2-en/
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Share Article Back to Top Onkyo Unveils Three New High End AV Receivers – All with Cisco SimpleTap Onkyo this week announced the release of three new models at the top of its A/V receiver line, including what it is claiming as the world's first full 11.4-channel implementation of DTS Neo:X, as well as the first use of Cisco Linksys' SimpleTap technology in an audio/video component. The company's new nine-channel flagship product, dubbed the TX-NR5010 Network A/V Receiver, is followed by a more moderately priced nine-channel alternative, the TX-NR3010 Network A/V Receiver and then a seven-channel solution, the TX-NR1010 Network A/V Receiver. All three include: - THX Ultra2 Plus certification to recreate the cinematic experience with dynamic Reference Level sound to larger home theaters up to 85 cubic meters in size and a viewing distance of approximately 3.5 meters
- 11.4-channel pre-outs with DTS Neo:X 11-channel upmixing support for both the TX-NR5010 and TX-NR3010, another world first for Onkyo
- First consumer electronics partner to incorporate Cisco Linksys' SimpleTap technology
- Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room equalization with multi-channel upmixing from DTS Neo:X, Audyssey DSX, and Dolby Pro Logic IIz
- An additional HDMI output to enable 1080p playback in a second zone
- InstaPrevue picture-in-picture video input preview and selection technology
- Front-panel Mobile High-Definition Link HDMI port for phone/camcorder
- Extra HDMI inputs to support 3D Video plus Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio (8+1 inputs on all three models)
- Bluetooth 3.0 and aptX wireless audio streaming via optional adapter
Onkyo has been working with Cisco to incorporate SimpleTap, which connects devices to the network such as Smart TVs, printers or tablets. Anyone can now use the Cisco Connect Cloud mobile app on her smartphone to get a compatible device connected in a matter of seconds. Connecting is as easy as pressing the virtual Wi-Fi Protected Setup button in the mobile app and, in the near future, as easy as scanning a Near Field Communications (NFC) tag that may be bundled with or integrated in various consumer electronic (CE) products. The flagship TX-NR5010 is aimed squarely at the avid home theater enthusiast or commerical installs where high-end sound is required. Housed in a rigid chassis with separate anti-resonant aluminum top and side panels, the unit has a massive toroidal transformer supported by two discrete transformers for audio and video processing. With gold-plated audio terminals and speaker posts, this unit is fastidiously outfitted to audiophile-grade specifications, according to Onkyo. The TX-NR3010 also boasts multiple transformers for A/V processing, but features a heavy-duty EI transformer in place of toroidal power. All models have isolated power and preamp blocks to reduce interference with a super-rigid chassis to prevent vibration. A new Differential DAC Mode and Digital Crossover Processing Network are also included on all three models to optimize performance when bi-wiring and bi-amping the front channels. With everything from an analog video input for PC to a generous mix of optical and coaxial digital audio inputs, all three models boast an exhaustive the list of A/V connections. In addition to the capacity to link with an iPhone, iPod, or flash memory device, these models include two USB ports in the front and rear to accommodate the UWF-1 Wireless LAN Adapter and UBT-1 Bluetooth USB Adapter (sold separately).
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Share Article Back to Top AMX Ships DXLink Transmitters AMX just started shipping its DXLink Multi-Format Transmitters, which send signals to the Enova DGX digital media switchers and Enova DVX presentation switchers. The transmitters add the ability to extend the reach of HDMI and analog AV sources, as well as control, Ethernet and power, carrying the signals up to 100 meters over one twisted pair cable. Both the DXLink Multi-Format Transmitter Module and wall plate designs are currently shipping.
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Share Article Back to Top Kramer Adds New Master Room Controller Kramer's new RC−74DL master room controller can function either as a standalone unit that controls room facilities such as lights, screens, drapes, etc., or as part of a more demanding K−Net room control system. The RC−74DL includes 12 configurable, multi-color front panel buttons with unique LCD text button group labels. Each button of the unit supports the ability to hold multiple layers of functionality for the same button. Integrated with an Ethernet port and three bidirectional RS−232 ports, the RC-74DL also includes two I/O ports that can function as digital inputs/outputs or analog inputs and it fits a standard three-gang electrical box. It can also be mounted on a podium or a table using Kramer’s K−POD301 Podium Table Bus. The RC−74DL is available in white, black, gray and brushed aluminum.
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Debuts VGA Driver with EDID Extron's new Extender Plus VGA and Audio Line Driver with EDID Minder is a one input, one buffered output line driver that extends VGA-QXGA and HDTV component video along with audio signals up to 250 feet (75 meters). Unbalanced computer stereo audio is converted to balanced, line level stereo audio to eliminate noise usually associated with unbalanced audio when distributed over long cable runs. It features EDID Minder, which automatically manages EDID communication between connected devices to ensure that the source powers up properly and reliably outputs content for display. The Extender Plus is available in Decora-style and AAP form factors, providing convenient AV access and signal extension for a wide variety of environments.
To maintain signal integrity over long distances, the Extender Plus provides video amplification and peaking control to compensate for attenuation that can occur in long cable runs. Proper signal compensation supports a more detailed image with greater contrast. Additional integrator-friendly features include an EDID capture mode, selectable resolutions and refresh rates and real-time status LED indicators for system monitoring. Both versions also include an energy-efficient, external universal power supply for worldwide compatibility.
Here are all the specs: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=extender&s=5
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Share Article Back to Top Matrox Partners with Portwell to Deliver Mura-Powered Video Wall Controller System Matrox Graphics today announced a partnership with American Portwell Technology to launch the new Portwell M9020B 4U rackmount system for large-scale video walls. The Portwell M9020B has been jointly validated for use with up to 10 Matrox Mura MPX input/output display wall controller boards to support up to 40 full 1080p inputs and up to 40 1080p outputs from a single system. The system features a 10-slot, PCI Express Gen 2×16 Portwell backplane to house the Mura MPX PCIe x16 Gen2 boards, with each leveraging 64 Gbps duplex data transfer. Mura MPX display controller boards are multi-functional solutions capable of capturing, scaling, positioning and displaying a variety of input sources — including HDCP device.
Want more information? Go here: http://portwell.com/matrox_display_wall.asp
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Share Article Back to Top Peerless-AV Adds iPad Stand and Universal Tablet Mount Peerless-AV announced today the availability of two universal desktop tablet mounts — the PTM400 and the PTM200 Universal Tablet Cradle, as well as the KP510-B Tablet Stand for iPads.
The PTM400 Universal Desktop Tablet Mount features adjustability functions that can fit most tablet devices on the market today. Both the width and height are adjustable, allowing installers to ensure expensive devices can be manipulated by desktop or standing users without the risk of breakage. The PTM400 version features standard Philips-head screwdriver tightening, while the PTM400(S) also offers theft-resistant hardware. With thirty degrees of tilt and swivel and three hundred sixty degrees of roll, the tablet can be positioned for maximum visibility and usefulness. Available in white or black, the Universal Desktop Tablet Mount also features integrated cables, which ensure wiring can be routed through the back of the mount.
The Universal Tablet Cradle PTM200 is adjustable to fit most tablet devices up to 0.75” in thickness. It also features a 75x75mm VESA pattern, which enables it to attach seamlessly to any other wall mount with a matching VESA pattern. Available in black or silver, the cradle mount comes with hardware covers that lend the product a professional appearance. There is also a PTM200(S) available with theft-resistant hardware.
Designed specifically for Apple iPad 1 and iPad 2 devices, the KP510-B-I Tablet Stand provides customers with a stable and easily accessible platform to showcase content. It stands at 45 inches tall, which Peerless says is the ideal height for users to operate the device comfortably, and fits the product within ADA reach distance guidelines. Weighing only 19 pounds, the stand can be moved easily and comes with security hardware to deter theft of the tablet PC. The clamshell style encasement securely surrounds the tablet PC while providing quick and easy access to power, cable and other inputs. The cover design hassle-free opening and closing for maintenance or swapping out the tablets.
The PTM400 is here: http://www.peerless-av.com/en-us/professional/products/PTM400
The PTM200 is here: http://www.peerless-av.com/en-us/professional/products/PTM200
The KP510-B-I isn't on Peerless's website yet.
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Share Article Back to Top Delta Intros Network-Based Control for Displays Delta Products launched the Super Resolution Image Software (SRIS) and IP Stream Software (IPSS) to its Distributive Vision Control System (DVCS) family. Aimed at the fast-growing process-based industries such as electrical, water, oil, gas and data, the new SRIS can capture and display videos and images at resolutions up to an astonishing 102,400 x 7,680, all in real time with high performance. With the latest DVCS processors, you can display virtually any super high resolution image on virtually any number of screens.
Based on the DVCS technology, the new IPSS offers the abilities to capture and display all types of IP streaming signals. This enables the DVCS to participate in large-scale surveillance networks with high-performance decoding and monitoring capabilities.
Super high resolution displays and IP camera signals can be controlled and managed through a simple interface. In addition, the latest software update allows users to control video wall displays from an Apple iPad, giving the system even greater flexibility to adapt to users’ needs.
Learn more here: http://www.deltadisplays.com/dvcs-product-page.html
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Share Article Back to Top RGB Spectrum Debuts Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher RGB Spectrum has introduced the Opto line of fiber optic matrix switchers, plus transmit and receive modules and accessories at InfoComm. Since the Opto line is fiber-based, it's designed for sending signals longer distances with no EMF susceptibility. According to RGB, all fiber components in the signal path are rated at 6.22 GHz which means they can be transmitted without the need for frame duplication or compression schemes, which can cause visual artifacts.
The Opto switcher chassis supports a mix of duplex and simplex connections as well as multi-mode and single-mode fiber. I/O cards and power supplies are hot-swappable, as are optional redundant controller cards. Three chassis sizes accommodate non-blocking matrices up to 160×160 duplex. Distances up to 1 kilometer are available over multi-mode fiber and up to 40 km over single-mode fiber.
The Opto TX/RX modules convert between signal sources, including DVI, HDMI, RGB and HD/3G-SDI formats and fiber optics. Modules are available as either stand-alone or in rack mount format. Up to four modules can populate the 1 RU rack mount chassis. The TX and RX modules can also be used as extender pairs.
Dual-link DVI, audio and serial and network data are options. EDID and HDCP are supported on a DDC return channel.
Complete specs are here: http://www.rgb.com/products/Opto/?c=n
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Share Article Back to Top Community Offers New Column Line Array Community has introduced the ENTASYS 200, a small format column line array loudspeaker, which offers a two-way design, complex frequency shaded LF crossover networks, the proprietary "ENTASYS" convex-curve HF to provide output and consistent beamwidth up to 16kHz.
ENTASYS 200 is a family of two-way column line-array loudspeakers for indoor and outdoor use. There are four ENTASYS 200 models ranging from the smaller ENT203 and ENT206, designed for delay fill and confined spaces, to the larger ENT212, to the extended-length ENT220, tall enough to provide solid control of the LF beamwidth without the need for additional columns or external LF extensions.
Usable both indoors and out, each ENTASYS 200 model can fulfill an exceptionally wide range of applications. All models include a 70V/100V internal low-distortion autoformer for constant-voltage applications and a pan-and-tilt mounting bracket.
Here are all the specs: http://www.communitypro.com/productlist/430-entasys200
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Share Article Back to Top Atlas Debuts Two New Sound Masking Amps Atlas Sound's new DSP2210 and DSP2212 digital sound masking/paging systems are self-contained, digital signal processors with integral amplification designed to route and mix masking, paging and background music sources. Applications include speech privacy and general paging for office spaces, health care campuses and secure government facilities.
Masking source is completely random and non-repeating (up to 215) hours with EQ adjustments programmable per output zone. Both models include dual channel Class-D amplification rated at 25 watts per channel (@ 70.7V) and a built in telephony interface simplifies paging set-up. The system is expandable up to 32 systems (64 zones) with primary and secondary assignment in a zone page dialing plan (two-digit DTMF) with "All Zone" and "Group zone" pages simply configured via the GUI. A fixed architecture DSP provides equalization, dynamic and routing priority control for all input sources as well as line level and amplified outputs.
Model 2212 includes AVB (Audio-Video Bridging) network interface allowing paging and BGM sources to be shared between multiple DSP8807s or DSP2212s.
All the specs for the DSP2210 are here: http://www.atlassound.com/Product.aspx?id=2117
All the specs for the DSP2212 are here: http://www.atlassound.com/Product.aspx?id=2116
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Share Article Back to Top L-Acoustics Debuts Compact Coax-Based Enclosure The newest and smallest member of L-ACOUSTICS' XT coaxial series is the 5XT, which has a two-way passive design with a nominal impedance of 16 ohms. It contains a one-inch diaphragm compression driver coaxially loaded by a five-inch low-mid frequency transducer mounted in a bass-reflex tuned enclosure.
L-Acoustics says the 5XT cabinet is made of premium-grade Baltic birch plywood, which the company claims ensures maximum acoustical and mechanical integrity. A 3/8-inch microphone stand insert and two M8 inserts for the ETR5 flying bracket are integrated into the cabinet. The 5XT enclosure operates over a frequency range of 90 Hz to 20 kHz.
The coaxial transducer arrangement produces a 100-degree axi-symmetric directivity output along with a smooth tonal response free of secondary lobes over the entire frequency range.
It's so new it's not on L-Acoustics' website yet. When it is, it will be here: http://www.l-acoustics.com/products-xt-range-64.html
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Share Article Back to Top Prysm Mourns Loss of Jason Litt Prysm is mourning the loss of Jason Litt, its vice president of North American sales, who died unexpectedly last week. He is survived by his wife, Michele, and daughter, Arin. Our thoughts are with his colleagues, friends and family.
To read the complete announcement online, and learn where you can make donations to his family, click here. | Back to Top Vaddio Promotes Mark Steen, Hires Darrin Thurston Vaddio has promoted Mark Steen as chief operating officer and Darrin Thurston as vice president of product development. Steen joined Vaddio in 2007 as a product manager. Thurston was previously at ClearOne Communications, where he was vice president of product management.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Chief Goes Direct in Canada Chief, a product division of Milestone AV Technologies and a supplier of mounts, racks and interactive solutions, announced this month that it is establishing a direct sales team in Canada to support current customers and future growth opportunities available in the Canadian market. Previously, Chief partnered with EIKI Canada to sell and distribute products via ChiefMounts Canada.
Chief will maintain three distribution locations in Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary to ensure product availability across Canada. Customers will begin ordering and taking delivery directly from Chief starting July 1, 2012.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top PreSonus Redesigns Website PreSonus has completely redesigned its website. Visit http://www.presonus.com to see the new website.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue! For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100% opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that's why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: we run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad). Don't like us, then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below. To send me feedback, don't reply to this newsletter – instead, write directly to me at gary@ravepubs.com or for editorial ideas: Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I've been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don't think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue – which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe Publications has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition. Everything we publish is Opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship ePublication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA and launched in February 2004, is, by far, the largest ePub in the HomeAV market (we blow away ANY other Publication in the high-end home AV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to:https://www.ravepubs.com To read more about my background, our team, and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top Copyright 2012 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – (919) 969-7501. Email: sara@ravepubs.com
rAVe contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors.
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